Virginia law is not specific about the age a child may be left alone, but the decision should never be based on age alone. Determining whether a child and your family are ready for self-care is a difficult first step.

Things to Consider

Maturity Level

Is your child "old" or "young" for his/her age level?

Children develop at different rates.

Look at your child's physical, mental, & emotional maturity.

One child may be able to care for him or herself, while another of the same age may need supervision.

Responsibility Level

Does your child use good judgment; follow directions, and complete homework and chores?

Look at your child's past performance in carrying out responsibilities as an indicator.

Attitude & Feelings

Is your child comfortable staying home alone?

Some children feel proud that their parents trust them to be alone, but others feel deserted.

How does your child feel about the possibility of self-care?

Time of Day

Will your child be home alone in the afternoon, evening, or both?

Does your child get scared easily when it is dark outside?

Length of Time

How long will your child be in self-care?

Some children are capable of being home alone for longer periods of time than others.

Start by leaving your child for a short period of time, talk to them about how it went, and gradually work up to longer periods of time.

Parental Support

Can you be reached easily at work? How far away are you each day? Does your child feel comfortable coming to you with a problem?

There are fewer negative effects of self-care when parents have a strong, caring relationship with their children, and give them consistent direction & support.

Community Support

Is there a neighbor or another trusted adult your child can go to or call if there's a problem?

It is important to have an identified trusted adult, preferably nearby, know that your child is home alone in case you cannot be reached.

Number of Children

How do your children typically interact?

Parents must be very clear as to which child is responsible for supervision and teach them appropriate parenting and disciplinary skills.

A child who is ready for self-care may not be ready to supervise siblings.

Neighborhood Safety

Are there well marked safe places?

Is your neighborhood well lit?

Can your child safely cross the street?

Are there problems with other people in the neighborhood (bullies, crime, or gangs)?

Home Safety

Are rules & expectations clearly stated & understood?

Have responses to home & medical emergencies been taught & practiced?

Children should have clear set limits about what appliances they can operate and how to handle situations such as phone calls and strangers at the door.